SELECTED PROBLEMS IN CONSTITUTIONAL LAW

LAW 795

Study the allocation of authority within and between state and local governments. Begin with analysis of state constitutions and the three branches of state government. Study how state and local governments interact, covering home rule and intrastate preemption as well as conflicts between localities. Analyze how local governments are financed. Consider the practical, normative, and theoretical implications of current doctrines and policies and explore how state and local government law plays out in the context of contemporary disputes, including over housing, education, and more.

LAW 731

An introduction to the constitutional law of the United States covering the basic structure of government in the United States, with emphasis on the federal government. Includes the role of the federal courts and the doctrine of judicial review; the rise of federal power, as reflected particularly in shifting definitions of "interstate commerce," the doctrine of separation of powers, with emphasis on current issues of legislative and executive branch authority; and judicial and other limitations on the exercise of authority by the states as well as selected rights protected in the Amendments to the Constitution.

LAW 740

Focuses on rights of citizens against state and federal governments, the nature of due process and equal protection of the law, to include discussions around the right to privacy,  freedoms of expression, association, religion, the right bear arms, and protection of civil rights and freedom from invidious discrimination.  What is the content of these rights? What methods should judges use to figure out the answer? What role does or should the judiciary have in enforcing those rights?

LAW 940

Topics reflect current issues relevant to the practice of law.

POLISCI 937

Exploration of themes in legal and/or constitutional theory.